Our healthcare systems in Australia continue to evolve, refining processes and streamlining systems, one of which is how Doctors prescribe, and the discussion of eScripts versus physical (also known as paper) prescriptions.
As an alternative therapies Patient, you may already have experienced one or both types of prescription, and with technology looking to make physical prescriptions obsolete in the not-so-distant future, let’s get to know each type, and the role they play in your Patient experience.
Where Physical Scripts Started
Paper prescriptions have played a key role in traditional healthcare for centuries, with origins tracing back to ancient civilisations including Mesopotamia and Egypt. While it wasn’t quite a pharmacist in a white coat, healers within communities would prescribe herbal remedies and note them down on papyrus scrolls – the very first version of the prescription pad!
Today, physical paper scripts are printed forms with duplicates for the Pharmacist & Patient and are still widely used – however, this tide looks set to turn.
eScripts on the Rise
In recent years, our healthcare system here in Australia has continued to march towards digital innovation, part of which has meant the introduction of electronic prescriptions, styled as ‘eScripts’. By removing the physical paper component, eScripts can be sent via means such as text and email, for Patients to access from their mobile devices, and send between pharmacies and clinics conveniently as digital files.
Benefits of eScripts
One of the key advantages of eScripts is their convenience factor – it’s easy to lose, misplace or damage a paper prescription (ink can fade, paper can tear and crumple). With prescriptions securely stored in digital format, they can even be accessed when travelling interstate – all you need is internet access. eScripts also allow Patients to order prescriptions in advance to collect when convenient from their local pharmacy, or simply have it posted to them – ideal for anyone with mobility issues or living in a more remote location.
On the pharmacy & clinic side, eScripts reduce paperwork and potential errors – eScripts also help us to track and ensure no prescription has been dispensed elsewhere, ensuring more safety for Patients.
Where eScripts are Headed
It’s only a matter of time before electronic prescriptions become the norm – the official rollout began in May 2020, using a phased approach to gradually introduce eScripts Australia-wide. While eScripts are growing in popularity, there are still plenty of paper prescriptions in circulation – some Patients still prefer a physical prescription they can store or carry with them, and technology will also need to play catch-up, ensuring every prescriber has the right software, as well as training and education for Patients to utilise them securely.
As our healthcare infrastructure evolves, eScripts are another step towards more streamlined convenience, with the added benefit of being paper-free. If you’re currently using physical scripts for your prescriptions, ask your Doctor about the option to have eScripts sent to your phone – there’s no better time to get familiar with this tech.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. For accurate legal guidance, please consult with relevant legal authorities or a qualified professional.